Strolling through the beautiful and, often dramatic scenery of Ireland is by far and away the most breathtaking and rewarding things for a visitor to do. For the ultimate relaxation Walking in Ireland is also one of the most popular.
In the Irish Republic there are dozens of trails, not all of them rambling through mountain passes or perched upon coastal cliffs, some of the outstanding walks are city based. Dublin for instance has a very good walking circuit for visitors.

However when you think of walking in Ireland walks such as the stunning ring of Kerry are more like the stereotypical fantasy images that spring to mind. This 179 kilometre round trip around the Iveragh peninsula can be driven in a day, but to really explore this scenic leg of land, the trip should be split up, possibly staying in one of the quaint traditional Irish villages en route and just by strolling along to really appreciate the views of mountains, lakes and the craggy sea front.

The Wicklow way trail is Ireland’s oldest, and one of the most beloved for walkers and cyclists alike, and for good reason. The route includes glacial valleys, mountain passes, lakes, forests and farmland. The route is 127 kilometres and starts in the Dublin suburb of Rathfarnham and finishes in the village of Clonegal in County Carlow.
You may want to check out other popular walking in Ireland trails in the Republic such as the Dingle Way. This is a 179 kilometre trail starting and finishing in Tralee, County Kerry, walking is done with a backdrop of mountains and the coastline. A far easier walk for the less committed tourist is Glendalough, an hour’s drive south of Dublin. This old monastic site has some good lake walks and can easily be done in a day trip from the capital. The Beara way, shared between Kerry and Cork, is again a beautiful walk taking in traditional villages, coastal views, while darting in between mountains and historical sites. Walk Northern Ireland has detailed maps of all the walking in Ireland routes.

If you are planning a trip to Northern Ireland, and are serious about walking then the 800 kilometre Ulster way, which circles the whole of the country is the walk you should take. It passes the Giants Causeway and the peaks of the Mourne mountains. is an informative site with more information on the Ulster way.
The Mountaineering Council of Ireland is the representative body for mountaineering and hill walkers and is a useful website.